A dental implant is an artificial tooth replacement. When a tooth is lost, the surrounding bone resorbs or shrinks, however an implant can help maintain and preserve the oral bone. Implants are an alternative to the fixed bridge.
Implants are made from titanium posts which are placed surgically into the jawbone where the teeth are missing. Once the implant has healed, a crown is fabricated and the patient regains their ability to eat, speak and smile.